Portable Remanded as Court Hears Assault and Theft Allegations in Ogun

Controversial Nigerian singer Portable, real name Habeeb Okikiola, has been remanded in custody following his first appearance at the Federal High Court in Ota, Ogun State, over multiple criminal allegations including assault and theft.

The 29-year-old musician was arraigned on Monday on a nine-count charge stemming from a complaint by his estranged partner, Ashabi Simple, related to a New Year’s Day incident at his bar in Iyana Ilogbo, Ogun State.

According to Ogun State Police Command spokesperson Oluseyi Babaseyi, the charges include assault, causing harm, stealing, and resisting arrest. Prosecutors alleged that Portable attacked Ashabi with a group of individuals, including police officers responding to a distress call at the venue.

The case also lists other alleged victims: Ileyemi Damilola, Akinyanju Oluwabusayomi, Olowu Olumide, Demilade Ogunniyi, and Ebuka Odah. In addition, Portable is accused of stealing a Mercedes-Benz E300 valued at ₦12 million, reportedly belonging to Ileyemi Damilola, with the vehicle sourced from Wally Dex Auto.

During proceedings, two of Ashabi Simple’s siblings testified about the alleged attack, though the complainant herself was absent. Prosecutors also claimed Portable obstructed and assaulted Ogungbe Olayemi, a female police inspector, while she was performing her duties.

The presiding judge denied bail, stating that the allegedly assaulted police officer must appear before any bail application could be considered. Portable will remain in custody until the next hearing on 19 January.

The arraignment comes amid public attention sparked by viral videos showing Portable in police custody, including clips that prompted the Ogun police to investigate claims that he was assaulted while detained.

This is not the first legal issue for the singer. In May 2025, he was sentenced to three months in prison by a magistrate court in Ifo Local Government Area over a 2022 assault case involving Osimosu Emmanuel Oluwafemi. He was also accused in that case of stealing studio equipment, including a Yamaha H55 monitor, an interface cable, and an AKG P420 condenser microphone.